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09 January 2009

FAQs - Exemptions and Discounts

Questions include:
Are there any discounts I can claim?
I am a full student, should I be paying the full Council Tax?
Are all properties liable for Council Tax
If I am disabled do I get a discount?
How can I apply for disabled relief?
  Are there any other discounts for other circumstances?
  Can I get help with my Council Tax payments?

Q: Are there any discounts I can claim?
A:
The full council tax assumes that there are two adults living in a property. If there is only one adult the council tax will be reduced by 25%. Apply for this discount by completing and returning the online Single Person Discount application form. Opens in a new window

If the property is no-one's main home the bill will be reduced by 10% . Notify us if the property is no-one's main home by filling out the online enquiry form.
More information about discounts

Q: I am a full time student. Should I be paying the full council tax?
A:
No, if you are attending a full time course of education the Council Tax Payer for your property could be entitled to a 25% discount or if you live on your own you could be fully exempt. Advise us of your details by clicking on this link.

Q: Are all properties liable for council tax?
A:
No, some properties are exempt from Council Tax


Q: If I am disabled do I get a discount?
A:
If your property has been extended or adapted to meet the needs of a disabled person you can apply for a one band lowering of your Council Tax. e.g. if your property is in band D and your application was successful you would pay the Council Tax for band C.

Q: How can I apply for Disabled Band Relief?
A:
Fill out your details on the Council Tax Enquiries form and we will send you an application form or contact us on our helpline 01276 707176. Once we receive your application one of the Council's Inspectors will contact you to arrange a viewing of your house at a time convenient to you. Within 7 days of the visit we will write to you with our decision and issue a revised Council Tax bill if appropriate.

Q: Are there any other discounts for other circumstances?
A:
Yes, the following people can be disregarded when counting the number of people living in a property so you may be entitled to a discount. View a full list of Council Tax Discounts

If you are a single person in your house check your latest bill or contact us to check you are receiving single person discount. This can save you 25% off your Council Tax. If anyone else is living in the house with you check they shouldn't be disregarded for Council Tax purposes.


If you are on a low income you may be entitled to Council Tax Benefit. View more information.

Q. Can I get help with my Council Tax payments?
A:
If you are unable to pay your Council tax instalments you can apply for Council Tax Benefit. View the full details of the Council Tax benefit scheme. You can also access our easy-to-use on-line Benefits calculator to check possible entitlements.

Last updated on 16/11/2007

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